Marion Eli Douglas

He was born Marion Eli Douglas on January 23, 1933 to Erwin Eli and Nettie Douglas in their family home. Eli attended the Hamilton Public Schools, where he both discovered his passion for education and met the love of his life, Joan Sneed. In 1954, he graduated from East Texas State Commerce, and thereafter joined the U.S. Army. He completed 16 weeks of basic training at Fort Bliss, followed by 2 years of service in the Battery Battalion in Norfolk, Virginia. He was honorably discharged in 1956 as he was eager to move to West Texas to pursue his career in education. Eli soon obtained both his Masters and Doctorate degrees, the latter earned while rearing his two daughters, Julie and Jill.

Dr. Douglas made an impact across the state of Texas as a teacher, principal, Assistant Superintendent of Fort Worth ISD, and most notably as Superintendent of Schools in Morton ISD, Gladewater ISD, Galveston ISD, and Garland ISD. He was beloved and respected within the education community as evidenced by the dozens of awards he received throughout his career, including his place in the “Top 100 Best School Managers in North America”, and his role as President of the Texas Association of School Administrators. His countless achievements were a product of his unmatched work ethic, integrity, optimism, servant-leadership, and passion for lifting up those around him. Those who have worked with Dr. Douglas note that he was an integral part of their career and that he was the ultimate mentor and advocate. Dr. Douglas continued to contribute to schools by launching a consulting business, where he worked with educational publishers and financial institutions. He also served on the Board of Energy for Schools, most recently as President.

Eli’s upbringing on a farm instilled a lifelong love and respect for the land. He owned and worked a ranch that is now cherished by his family, and he enjoyed golfing, camping, fishing, hunting, and traveling. He was also a talented musician; he could pick up any string instrument and play a tune. His family has fond memories gathered around the piano as he played the Boogie-Woogie. Eli was a Baptist deacon and a 32nd Degree Mason, and most importantly, he loved the Lord.

Eli married his childhood sweetheart, Joan, on October 23, 1954. His dedication to his “honey” was unwavering until the day he died. Together, they served as the cornerstone of their family. When having family over, he sat by the back door to welcome everyone in with open arms, and when the gathering came to a close, he would sit in that same place to ensure everyone got on their way safely. His contagious laughter and sense of humor only added to his uncanny ability to recall stories to his loved ones around the kitchen table.

Eli’s grandchildren also fondly remember the countless football and baseball games, dance recitals, and awards ceremonies during which JoJo and Granddad sat front row. He was often the first phone call made after his family’s accomplishments, as he joyfully celebrated the victories with his loved ones.

Eli is survived by his daughters Julie Jones (Hugh Jones) and Jill McKay (Chris McKay), his grandchildren, Madeline Jones Alfaro (Anthony Alfaro), Nicholas Jones, Madison McKay, Sydney Jones Tipton (Colten Tipton), and Eli McKay, his great-grandchildren, Mia Alfaro and Sutton Tipton, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Eli and Nettie Douglas, his sister Aline Raibourn, and his brothers Dale, N.L., and Omar.

Eli Douglas was a trusted advisor and friend, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was an encourager and teacher, and constantly put others before himself. He loved the Lord and cherished his family, and he left a legacy in his footsteps. The loss that our family feels is unparalleled, but we find comfort in knowing that he is now with his sweetheart in the presence of Jesus.

The family is hosting a visitation on Friday, August 6th at 6:00pm at the Riley Gardner Funeral Home, and a service will take place the next morning at 11:00am at the First Baptist Church in Hamilton, Texas, followed by a graveside burial. In honor of his wife, donations may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation in Joan Douglas’s name.